Luxurious practice journeys between Denver and Moab start on the Rocky Mountaineer – CBS Denver

(CBS4) – After years of planning, a luxury train that will run from Denver to Utah has hit the rails.

(Credit: CBS)

The Canadian Rocky Mountaineer took off on its maiden voyage in Colorado on Sunday.

“We’re excited, we’re ready, and I can feel the energy when everyone gets on the train,” said Wendy McMichael, senior on board manager.

It’s just over a week before we see you aboard our newest route, Rockies to the Red Rocks!

Enjoy delicious meals and drinks delivered right to your seat and take in panoramic views of the Colorado Rockies before welcoming the glow of the red rocks to Moab, Utah pic.twitter.com/rb4j7XtF5a

– Rocky Mountaineer (@rmountaineer) August 6, 2021

Ray and Debbie Lee from South Carolina were among the excited passengers waiting to board.

“We’re veterans of the Canadian version of the Rocky Mountaineer and wanted to be on the maiden voyage for the American version,” said Ray.

After exiting Denver, the train makes an overnight stop in Glenwood Springs and then continues to Canyon Country, Utah with a final stop in Moab.

Train tickets start at around $ 1,200. It may seem quite expensive, but the idea is similar to an all-inclusive cruise with lavish meals and wine. It is a luxurious experience when guests sit back and enjoy the mountain views from huge windows.

(Credit: CBS)

“It may be the only time in my life that I’ve refused to eat because they feed you and drink so much,” said Ray.

The runs will give a boost to the Colorado economy, particularly Glenwood Springs, which is not getting its usual tourist dollars as destructive mudslides in Glenwood Canyon have blocked normal highway access there for more than two weeks.

“They were warm, they were warmly welcomed,” said McMichael of the companies they worked with in Glenwood Springs. “We know we will have a great partnership with them. And the fact that we can help support this community that has gone through such difficult times is just heartwarming for us. “

(Credit: CBS)

The opening season of the Rocky Mountaineer lasts through mid-November with 56 tours through the Rocky Mountains. Learn more at rockymountaineer.com.